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The Bureau of Customs launched a probe into the alleged recycling and resale of seized vape products
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Customs commissioner Bienvenido Rubio directed the BOC intelligence group to conduct a comprehensive fact-finding investigation and submit a report within 30 days
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The items were recently confiscated and reportedly placed under a safekeeping order
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Apart from verifying the validity of allegations, the probe aims to identify any BOC personnel involved
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has launched a probe into the alleged recycling and resale of seized vape products.
Customs commissioner Bienvenido Rubio directed the intelligence group headed by Customs deputy commissioner Juvymax Uy to conduct a comprehensive fact-finding investigation and to submit weekly status reports as well as a detailed report within 30 days.
The items were recently confiscated and reportedly placed under a safekeeping order via a mission order, according to a BOC news release.
Apart from verifying the validity of allegations, the probe aims to identify any BOC personnel involved.
“The investigation will also assess any potential administrative and criminal liabilities associated with these claims,” the BOC said.
Meanwhile, Rubio assured the public that the counterfeit goods recently seized in Binondo, Manila are secure. These goods, valued at approximately P11 billion, will undergo the appropriate seizure and forfeiture procedures in accordance with the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and other relevant regulations.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on July 20 signed an administrative order to suspend the online sale of vape products in alignment with the provisions of Republic Act No. 11900 or the Vape Law.
Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual signed Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 24-03 suspending the online sale of vapor products, vapor product devices, and vapor product systems on marketplaces.
The mandate seeks to prevent minors from accessing vape products, particularly through online channels.
In 2023, the country’s first casualty due to e-cigarette or vape-associated lung injury (EVALI) was a 22-year-old male with no prior health issues but died of a heart attack, following severe lung injury due to vaping.
The case was published in the Respirology Case Reports journal by doctors from the Philippine General Hospital , according to the Department of Health.
READ: BOC-MICP intercepts smuggled cigarettes, vape products worth P791M
